Ghana-EU Security Deal Doesn’t Permit Foreign Military Bases- Foreign Ministry

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has provided clarity to its Security and Defence Partnership with the European Union (EU), stating that it does not permit the establishment of a foreign military base.

Additionally, it noted that the deal does not permit the stationing of foreign troops on Ghanaian soil.

It assured the public that Ghana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity remain fully protected under this arrangement.

Rather, it said the cooperation is strictly based on mutual respect, shared interests and Ghana’s national security.

The Ministry made this statement while addressing misinformation and misinterpretations circulating in sections of the public domain regarding the nature and implications of the Partnership.

“The Ministry wishes to assure the public that such claims are inaccurate and do not reflect the substance or intent of the agreement.”

It affirmed that the partnership is informed by the security dynamics within the West African sub-region, particularly the threat of violent extremism and instability in the Sahel, as well as maritime security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea.

It emphasised that strengthening strategic partnerships remains a critical component of Ghana’s proactive approach to safeguarding peace, stability and development.

Deal
The Ministry further noted that the Partnership provides a structured framework for collaboration in key areas.

The areas include counter-terrorism, maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, cybersecurity, border management, and support for peacekeeping and crisis response operations. It also facilitates technical assistance, training and the provision of equipment to support Ghana’s security agencies.

“This Partnership is not a standalone or sudden initiative. It builds on longstanding cooperation between Ghana and the European Union, which has, over the years, supported various security and governance programmes in the country and across the West African sub-region. The agreement, therefore, formalises and deepens existing collaboration within a coherent and forward-looking framework.”
Commitment
The Ministry further stated that Ghana remains firmly committed to its longstanding policy of non-alignment and will continue to engage all international partners in a constructive and mutually beneficial manner, in pursuit of its national interest and its enduring commitment to justice, equity and international cooperation.

It also reaffirmed Ghana’s longstanding foreign policy principles of good neighbourliness, Pan-Africanism and peaceful coexistence.

“Ghana cherishes and values its relations with neighbouring states and remains steadfast in its commitment to regional peace and mutual respect. In this regard. Ghana will neither enter into any bilateral nor multilateral arrangement that would undermine the security, sovereignty or territorial integrity of its neighbours.”

Story by Hajara Fuseini

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